The grand opening of the Center for Kyrgyz Language and Manas Studies took place at KRSU
December 4 at the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University named after B.N. Yeltsin, the grand opening of the Center for Kyrgyz Language and Manas Studies — the first specialized space in Bishkek, combining scientific research, educational projects and cultural and educational activities in the field of the epic «Manas» and the Kyrgyz language took place.
The event is dedicated to the Day of the Epic «Manas» and was accompanied by the opening of a thematic photo exhibition dedicated to the history of the storytelling tradition, the legacy of the great Manascha Sayakbay Karalaev and the stages of studying the epic heritage.
Opening the ceremony, Rector KRSU Sergey Volkov noted the historical significance of the event for the university and the entire cultural agenda of the country:
«Epic “Manas” — this is the strength of the national spirit, historical memory and centuries-old philosophy of the Kyrgyz people. The creation of the Center — is an important step to strengthen the humanities and preserve intangible heritage. It will be a place of dialogue of cultures, scientific search and respect for great traditions».
The rector emphasized that the Center will be located in the main building of KRSU and will become part of the renovated humanitarian space of the university:
«The proximity of the Center for Kyrgyz Language and Manas Studies with the Center for Russian Educational Space — this is symbolic both politically and culturally. Our university unites two countries, and this proximity reflects this mission».
The center was headed by Doctor of Philology, Honored Cultural Worker of the Kyrgyz Republic, President of the International Association of Manasologists Talantaaly Bakchiev.
Speaking at the opening, he emphasized that the event coincided with an important date:
«On December 4, 2013, the trilogy “Manas” was included in the UNESCO representative list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. And today KRSU is taking a historic step by creating the first university center of this level. It will be a bridge between peoples, cultures and generations».
Mukanova Nuripa, Secretary General of the Anti-Corruption Business Council of the Kyrgyz Republic, called the creation of the Center «a historic step for the country»:
«It is not just a scientific structure — it is a guardian of cultural memory, a place from which a new generation of epic researchers will grow. The center will become a symbol of cultural pride and intellectual strength of Kyrgyzstan».
Representatives of the ANO «Eurasia» they also expressed support for the initiative:
«Epic “Manas” — it is a spiritual reference point and source of values. It is important for us to support projects that unite Kyrgyzstan and Russia. The Centre will be an important part of the common humanitarian space of our countries».
He also spoke at the opening Samat Abdraimov, Chief Specialist of the Department for the Development of Art and Policy Implementation of the Ministry of Culture, Information and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic. He emphasized the enormous cultural value of the epic «Manas» for the state and the importance of supporting scientific and educational initiatives.
As part of the opening, a thematic exhibition was held dedicated to traditions, the life path of Sayakbay Karalaev, archival documents and rare photographs and the development of Manas studies as a scientific direction.
The exhibition aroused great interest among students, teachers and guests.
The creation of the Center for Kyrgyz Language and Manas Studies expands the scientific and cultural capabilities of KRSU. The Centre shall deal with:
- a study of the epic and the storytelling school
- development of scientific projects in epic studies
- popularization of the Kyrgyz language
- conducting lectures, expeditions, meetings with Manaschi,
- formation of intercultural dialogue.
KRSU continues to strengthen its humanitarian profile, develop research areas and preserve the cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan and Russia.
Photos at the link: https://cloud.mail.ru/public/tfEk/i5AHurqt9
